Catfish

Additional names

Common Walking Catfish, Walking Catfish, Clarias Catfish

Additional scientific names

Silurus batrachus, Clarias punctatus, Clarias assamensis

Origin

Asia: Java, Indonesia. Clarias aff. batrachus from Indochina and Clarias aff. batrachus from Sundaland have been misidentified as Clarias batrachus from Java. Introduced elsewhere. Several countries report adverse ecological impact after introduction.

Sexing

Mature males have spots along the anal fin.

Tank compatibility

Keep with large robust fish, anything smaller will be eaten. Suitable tank mates include large Cyprinids, such as the Bala Shark or Tinfoil Barb, or Central American Cichlids (not African).

Diet

Complete omnivore. Will devour anything including small fish, plant matter, pellet and flake foods, frozen/live bloodworm and brine shrimp.

Feeding regime

Twice a day.

Environment Specifics

Large spacious tank with deep-rooted plants and places to hide, clay pipes are welcome decor as hideaways.

Behaviour

This fish can survive for long periods out of water, hence it's name. They grow fast and will gorge themselves on any foods offered.

Identification

A large fish with long dorsal and anal fins with a rounded caudal fin. Strong pectoral fins, which are used to help it "walk" when it's out of water. They come in several colours including the an olive/green brown, a piebald spotted and a naturally occurring albino.

Pictures